• It all started May 9th 2024, when the small group of Republic Services Operators and Drivers at the Lacey WA Transfer Station voted in favor of union representation By Teamsters Local 252.

      The wants and needs of the group were simple: better safety and equipment standards, affordable health and welfare, and competitive wages. The fight was on from day one. The company did everything they could to convince these workers that they were better off without the union. They deployed every trick in the book; captive audience meetings, scare tactics, promising them the world, getting new equipment and the list goes on. These men saw through it all, stayed united,  and ultimately came out on top.

      In preparation for negotiations, Teamsters Union Local No. 252 called on area experts from the Joint council (JC 28) and Division experts from the International with decades of industry knowledge and relationships in preparation for fighting the greedy company Republic. After 14 months of with very little movement at the bargaining table the group took a Strike authorization vote. At that point, it was clear that in order to get the respect of Republic Services and show them the level of sincerity and unity there was within the group, the members were going to have to strike and withhold their labor. On July 9th, 2025, Local 252 joined forces with Local 25 (Boston) and extended the strike line north to Republic locations within Locals 117, 174, 38, and 763. All of our brothers and sisters at those locations honored the picket line.

      As the trash piles mounted, so did the tension and pressure on Republic Services to do the right thing and get back to the table. Local 252 was not scheduled to meet with Republic Services until July 30th and we were prepared to hold the line until then if necessary. Republic couldn’t take the pressure and fines that were occurring each day that the garbage wasn’t picked up, which lead to the company agreeing to return to the negotiation table Monday July 21st.

      Negotiations went well into the morning hours of July 22nd.  A first-time contract that shows the members the respect they demand and deserve was negotiated by Local 252 Business Agent and Lead Negotiator Dane Bonnell, Ken Marshall Joint Council 28’s Solid Waste Division Director as Second Chair, Shop Stewards Eddie Coleman and William Zekus as subject-matter experts. Also included were Rick Hicks Joint Council 28’s President and Secretary-Treasurer of Local 174, Marcus Williams Joint Council 28’s Director of Negotiations, Brian Blaisdell Local 252’s Secretary-Treasurer as Negotiation Experts, and Heather Slusher Local 252’s President as negotiation support. This first-time contract secured Union Health Insurance, a competitive base wage, Just Cause, and other protective contract language. Most importantly, they secured the right to a collective voice, a say in the decisions made by the company that affect working conditions and their lives.

      All bargaining unit members of the Lacey Republic Services were present for the final presentation of the contract. They voted overwhelmingly to adopt the contract and proudly become Teamsters. This first-time contract was hard fought and won. Shop Steward Will Zekus stated: “This action was necessary, with that said we hope we never have to do it again”. We want to recognize that we did not win this fight alone. It took a lot of work and support from our brothers and sisters from Teamsters Local 25, 38, 58,117, 174, 313, 763, UFCW, Thurston Lewis Mason County Labor Council, Olympia Indivisible, Members of Olympia City Council, Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) and community members. Brother Dan Reopelle said, “The strike line was long and hot days, but seeing all the support from the community, other Local Unions and especially from the guys at Local 252 made it a really cool experience”. Shop Steward Will Zekus said “The solidarity was amazing, and the support was phenomenal”. 

      This contract is a foundation to be built upon for generations, changing the lives of countless workers to come. These members are proud that their efforts will change not only their lives today but the future as well. Will Zekus concluded by stating “This contract is a step in the right direction, and it has me looking forward to the future.”

      With an employee base as great as Lewis County Transit, these types of decisions are not taken lightly.

      We reached out to LCT to see how Colby stands out among his peers. Here is what they had to say, 

      "Over the past year, Colby has embraced new challenges and technologies with an admirable level of dedication and adaptability. When unforeseen circumstances arose, Colby stepped up to lead the shop, ensuring the fleet stayed on the road without interruption. His ability to research, prepare, and execute tasks safely and efficiently shows his commitment to excellence. He has also demonstrated a strong willingness to attend training on the new hydrogen buses, preparing himself to navigate and maintain this emerging technology with confidence.

      Colby’s initiative extends beyond his immediate duties. He consistently brings forward valuable safety ideas and concerns, demonstrating his dedication to creating a safer, more effective work environment. Respected by his peers and admired for his dependability, Colby is eager to learn new skills that will benefit his current role and advance his career. Watching his growth over the years has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re proud to call him an integral part of the team. Colby truly exemplifies what it means to be an all-around great employee and person.”

      These non-models sure know how to strike a pose! A Northwest Administration photographer was out photographing Teamsters at work in preparation for the launch of their new website. Keep an eye out for your 252 brothers and sisters from Lewis County Transit, IP Callisons, and Winlock Police Department on the updated website.

      Teamsters Local Union No. 252 would like to thank the Centralia Downtown Association for hosting such a wonderful event. And the community for being so welcoming. This was our first year participating in the parade. We are excited and plan on seeing you all again next year. Special shout out to everyone who participated in the float building or participated in the parade. If you missed it, click here to visit the Chronicle for more photos and a video. Our float is highlighted at minute 46.


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      Lewis County Transit employees were all smiles after Sunday's ratification vote. This contract secures competitive wage increases over the three (3) year term. Teamsters Union Local No. 252 and their dedicated stewards have been negotiating strong contracts with Lewis County Transit since 2009.


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      The golfers were not deterred by the rain!

      Teamsters Local Union No. 252 would like to thank the Russ Walpole Golf Tournament Committee,

      Sponsors, and Golfers. Because of you, this memorial scholarship is possible. Thank you - see you next year!

      Nic Denman poses with Monica Brummer alongside the Centralia Collige Environmental Mobile Classroom at the South West Washington Fair. Monica. The director of the PNW Center of Excellence for Clean Energy reached out to the Teamsters to facilitate the moving of their mobile classroom from Centralia to the Fairgrounds. Nic Denman a CDL Driver for UNFI and Proud Teamster, answered the call. Thank you, Nic, for being active in your Union and your community. 

      "I felt honored to be recognized as Law Enforcement Liaison of the Year by the Washington Traffic   Safety Commission. It's a privilege to work with such a great team that includes the Washington Traffic Safety   Committee and local partners like Lewis County Target Zero Taskforce". 

         -Captain Jeff Godbey

      There is no question that Teamsters do amazing work! Captain Godbey is a 22-year-Teamster, who has worked in many capacities for Lewis County throughout his career. In 2018 he took on the role of Lewis Counties Law Enforcement Liaison. His efforts were recognized this past June when he was named Law Enforcement Liaison of the Year. We here at Local No.252 would like to showcase Captain Godbey, and thank him for his unwavering dedication to this community. Click here to read the Chronicles full article for more on Captain Godbey's dedication to traffic safety and community involvement.


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      The Tacoma Rainiers are showing their appreciation for DRIVERS. This is a wonderful opportunity for you drivers, to get some quality time with the family that work often keeps you away from. It might be early for Truck Driver Appreciation Week, but it's never too early to thank a truck driver. Special shout out to all the DRIVERS at Local Union No. 252.
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      This morning, the employees at Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS) in Olympia ratified their first ever collective bargaining agreement. This is the first agreement for this company in the Nation. The groups top priorities, which the Teamsters were able to secure, were job protections and guaranteed wage increases. We are excited to welcome the ADS group to the Teamsters!

      After 44 years, Master Mechanic and Shop Steward Corky Watkins retired from Ocean Spray. Congratulations on a well-deserved retirement!

      We are happy to announce the recipients of the 2024-2025 Russ Walpole Scholarship Award! 

      Pictured above are Russ Walpole Scholarship recipients Cassidy Phan of Olympia High School and Bannack Firkins of Capitol High School.

      First, we want to thank all applicants for their very thoughtful responses. The students that applied made the selection process very difficult. Secondly, we want to thank the Scholarship Award Committee for their care in reviewing each application and thoughtfully selecting this year's recipients.  We are so proud of these students for their hard work and dedication to furthering their education. Wishing all applicants the best luck on their future academic endeavors.

      A BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO:

       Kennedee Woolett: Shelton High School

       Cassidy Phan: Olympia High School

       Kassidy Jack: Timberline High School

       Kylie Buchin: South Kitsap High School

       Bannack Firkins: Capitol High School

      Local No. 252 sends heartfelt thanks to all Police Officers, for their dedicated service to the community.  National Police Week occurs every May, the13th-17th this year. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund will hold ceremonies, including the 36th Annual Candlelight Vigil, to honor the fallen officers whose names have recently been added to the Memorial.
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      Registration is now open for the 3rd Annual Russ Walpole Memorial Golf Tournament! Please use the form provided to register. We look forward to seeing you on the course! To download the entry form click HERE. @media only screen and (max-width: 730px){ .pdfview{height:500px .
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      Bettering the lives of workers and their families is what we do at Local 252, but we cannot do it alone. Jesus saw an opportunity to improve his life and the lives of his coworkers, never losing sight of the greater good and maintaining a positive attitude all the way. Jesus was outstanding in his organizing role and will undoubtedly be an effective voice for his coworkers in negotiations.

      “Hey, I’m Jesus, a proud new member of Teamsters 252. This process has been a good learning experience! In the beginning, not everyone was on board, but I maintained a positive attitude, and everything worked out. In the end, all but one voted yes. During the process, I was not alone. I was there supported by my fellow team members. I was not alone, and that’s the whole meaning of the union and what my team stands by. If we stand as one, we are one.

      “” Martin Luther King said, we must learn to live together as brothers, or we will perish as fools. ”” This quote motivated me to make this work. Going forward, we have each other and that gives me great confidence as we fight for what we deserve!" 

      Joice McCoy, Lewis County Sheriffs Corrections Lieutenant and Proud Teamster, retired after 38.8 years of service. In 2005, McCoy fought hard to keep the Lieutenants and Corrections Sargent in the union when some members of the group wanted to decertify and become a guild. McCoy said "it was a bloodbath", clearly a fight worth fighting. Local 252 wants to thank you, McCoy, for your hard work and dedication to your community, and thank you for all the time and energy you gave your Teamsters Brothers and Sisters as Shop Steward.

      Congratulations Joyce McCoy, we wish you all the best in your retirement!

      Lewis County Sheriffs Support Staff leaves their guild for better benefits and peace of mind over healthcare in retirement. 

      "The financial hardship of medical coverage for retirement age people is crazy", said Tamra Shields, former Guild President. "We are faced with so much uncertainty about if or when we will be able to retire, not knowing if we will be able to afford medical coverage before Medicare eligibility. This Retiree Medical plan being afforded to us changes that. There is no medical coverage plan with coverage at age 50 that even comes close to what this plan offers".

      Vice President of the Guild, now Teamsters' member in good standing Sarah Booker-Godsey says ''joining the Teamsters is refreshing. In an environment always changing, being part of a contract that prioritizes the employees' best interests brings peace of mind to the Support Staff currently working, and I hope it will incentivize new hires to make a career at Lewis County''.

      Senior Business Agent Rob ReRosa and the rest of us here at Local 252 are excited to introduce the Lewis County Sheriffs Support Staff. 

      Teamsters lead the way in championing gender equality. Since the union was founded in 1903, the Teamsters welcomed women and men alike. Together, they had a vision for a better future for workers, and the tenacity to take on greedy corporations, organize politically, and fight like hell for the working class.
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       A signing ceremony was held on February 22nd, to officiate the newly ratified agreement between the Teamsters Local 252 and the City of Tumwater Public Works Department.

      Dave Schween, Michelle Sutherland, Rob DeRosa, Mayor Debbie Sullivan, and Brian Blaisdell 

      "Pay increases on this contract were a big plus for the crew. I was also really happy to see additional things (longevity pay, and City contribution to the pension) make it into the contract that will act as a foundation to build from in the future. These items were just a wish list for so long". Dave Schwenn Shop Steward and Bargaining Team Member


      Download: 2024-02-28 Teamsters Signing 1.jpg

      Public Safety 911 Telecommunicators, worked closely with the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to separate the Telecommunicators from under the Sheriff’s Department contract and supervision to a separate contract under the County. This new contract gives Public Safety Telecommunicators security in their supervisor. Their direct supervision will be hired with the department's goals and needs as the priority. In addition to this security, the negotiation team won historic pay increases.

      Bargaining team member Mosley said, “Negotiations went smoother than in years past, and she was happy about the pay increases”.

      Teamsters Local 252 members at City of Tumwater Public Works have ratified a new three (3) year agreement. The new three (3) year agreement provides historical pay increases, recognition of longevity, has the City paying into the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust, and the City continues to pay 100% full Medical and Benefits for the life of the agreement. This contract greatly benefits 32 Local 252 members and their families.

      “The bargaining committee did an incredible job," said Brian Blaisdell Secretary - Treasurer, "the team of, Senior Business Agent Rob DeRosa, Business Agent Heather Slusher and Shop Steward David Schwen worked hard to achieve this incredible agreement”.

      Recently organized UNFI Drivers met with Local 252 staff on Saturday to discuss and prepare for upcoming negotiations with the Company. The 53-worker group overcame a vicious anti-union campaign by the company to win strong representation. They are seeking improvements to wages, working conditions, and health care and retirement benefits.



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      Take it to the Members Montesano
      The summer season is wrapping up Montesano, Grays Harbor & Elma Teamsters enjoyed a picnic in perfect weather. Hotdogs and laughter was had by all.
      Take it to the Members Ocean Shores
      Great turn out for Take it to the Members Ocean Shores! We enjoyed meeting some and getting to know others a little more.
      Take it to the Members Lewis County
      Thank you to everyone from the City of Chehalis, Darigold, Chehalis School Dist., and Lewis County that braved the heat to say hello and have lunch.
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      Elma UPS Group
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      Inaugural Shop Steward Seminar
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      Inaugural Shop Steward Seminar
      IBT Training Department Instructor Iliana Flores, Western Region VP & JC 28 President Rick Hicks with Local 252 Secretary-Treasurer Brian Blaisdell
      Inaugural Shop Steward Seminar
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